Resolved: The United States should no longer pressure Israel to work toward a two-state solution.

This is an interesting topic because of its odd timing. A two state solution is not any less viable now than it was before, so it’s weird that we would consider this now. Maybe it’s another Trump inspired discussion….joy….

Definitions

United States – In this case, this probably means the Secretary of State or President since they are the two who would most directly “pressure” Israel to do anything

Pressure – There is no pressure currently. It’s not like we’re levying sanctions against Israel until they accept a two state solution. Pressure really just means to suggest sternly.

Two State Solution – This is the idea that there should two separate Isareli and Palestinian states. It’s pretty simple in concept, not so simple in implementation.

Pro

1. The people no longer care – Recent commentary from within Palestine and Israel shows that citizens no longer care about a two state solution. They only care about peace and a good standard of living.

2. It’s not working – Israel is not going to accept or implement a two state solution, so what’s the point? Let’s pressure toward a solution that they will actually enact.

Con

1. The Palestinian people deserve an independent state – This isn’t about what will work; it’s about justice. Oppressed peoples deserve autonomy and self-determination.

2. Trump is incapable of coming up with another solution – Switching pivotal international policy positions during times of unstable leadership is generally a bad idea. If we don’t have leaders in place capable of coming up with better or more creative solutions, then we shouldn’t switch.